Pudgy Pigeons Pig Out

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Pudgy Pigeons Pig Out

Human beings aren't the only ones who fight the battle of the bulge: Plump pigeons also must watch their waistlines. But it isn't so easy in the United Kingdom, says the organization Keep Britain Tidy, because so many people litter the pavement with their uneaten junk food. Not only does this lead to portly, ponderous pigeons, but the food surplus is causing bird populations to skyrocket. "People genuinely feed pigeons out of a sense of kindness," said Alan Woods, the group's chief executive. "But by leaving food around, they are not helping the birds at all. Pigeons become dependent on you for their diet, and when flocks gather, this spreads disease and drives smaller birds away." The group has waged a consciousness-raising campaign, and supports legislation that fines incorrigible litterbugs.– Jenny McKeel